Blue Badge holders across the country could be at risk of a £1,000 fine if they don’t pay attention to when they initially applied for it. In 2019, the eligibility criteria for the Blue Badge was broadened to include people with non-visible disabilities, such as Parkinson’s, dementia, and epilepsy. This change aimed to assist more individuals in accessing parking spots closer to their desired destinations, whether they’re driving themselves or riding as passengers.
Most Blue Badge users are aware that their badges have an expiration date, typically three years from the date of issue. However, what many might not realise is that the renewal process is not automatic and they must take action themselves, reports the Daily Record.
To avoid a lapse in validity, users are advised to apply for renewal 12 weeks (or three months) before their current badge expires. Failure to do so can result in significant penalties. Displaying an expired Blue Badge is considered misuse, a criminal offence that can incur a hefty fine of £1,000.
Official guidance from GOV.UK states: “It is a criminal offence for you or anyone else to misuse the badge. Doing so could lead to a £1,000 fine and confiscation of the badge.”
If your Blue Badge is set to expire before the end of May, ensure you submit your renewal application by the end of this month to receive your new badge before the expiration date. To provide a better perspective, 12 weeks from February 28 marks May 23.
Renewing your Blue Badge
The guidance further clarifies: “Your eligibility will be checked every time you reapply. This is to make sure you can still get a Blue Badge. Your local council processes your application and decides if you can get a Blue Badge.”
Applicants are advised to submit their renewal 12 weeks before the expiration of their current badge. In Scotland, a Blue Badge costs £20, while in England the fee is up to £10, and in Wales, it’s free.
Before you apply for a Blue Badge, you will need:
- the details of your current Blue Badge
- proof of benefits (if you get any)
- proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence)
- proof of address (such as a Council Tax bill or government letter)
- your National Insurance number (if you have one)
Renewals can be made through the GOV. UK site. The online application process allows users to start and save their progress, enabling them to return later to complete it once all necessary documents are gathered.
If there are any changes to personal details, badge holders should inform their local council.